Federal grant awarded to Suffolk police to combat gang violence

The Suffolk County Police Department says it was awarded $500,000 from the Department of Justice through a federal grant to combat gang violence.

The money will cover the department’s stepped-up patrols in gang areas.

Officials say the money will also fund school and community programs aimed at reducing gang recruitment and helping at-risk youths.

"The Suffolk County Police Department and its law enforcement partners have implemented an extremely aggressive strategy to eradicate MS-13 from our communities," stated SCPD Commissioner Sini. "This grant will further those efforts. On behalf of Suffolk County, I want to thank the Department of Justice for its continued partnership."

Crime analysis has identified several street gangs, including MS-13, Bloods, and Crips, which have been responsible for gang and gun crime in "hot spot" communities in Suffolk County.